Malleefowl
Leipoa ocellata
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<birdfyi-bird slug="leipoa-ocellata"></birdfyi-bird>About
A large megapode (~2.1 kg) of family Megapodiidae, cryptically patterned in brown, black, and white. Endemic to arid and semi-arid mallee scrublands of southern Australia. Males build enormous soil-and-litter mounds, monitoring internal temperature with the bill and adjusting insulation year-round. Feeds on seeds and invertebrates. Vulnerable due to land clearing and introduced predators.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 62.0 cm | 24.4 in |
| Weight | 2092.5 g | 73.81 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Upperparts intricately patterned with black, white, and buff vermiculations forming an ocellated mosaic; black streak down centre of white throat. Underparts pale buff-grey; tail barred black and white.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to semi-arid mallee scrubland of southern Australia, primarily in South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. Largely sedentary.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; eats seeds, fruits, flowers, and invertebrates in Australian mallee scrubland. Uses strong feet to scratch for food.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: M. Incubation: 49-96 days.
Clutch Size
2-34
Sound
Song
Produces a loud, repeated booming call and guttural clucking notes. The deep, far-carrying boom is the key territorial sound; diagnostic in semi-arid Australian mallee scrubland.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Megapodiidae (Megapodes) |
| Genus | Leipoa |
| Species | Leipoa ocellata |
Distribution
Malleefowl has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Malleefowl eat?
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Is the Malleefowl endangered?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Megapodiidae family